Looking up from the Arcata Plaza

The city of Arcata

This small city of 15,000 people has been the focus of national attention from time to time. In 1996 it became the first city in the United States to have a Green City Council elected to office. And in its May/June 1996 issue the Utne Reader magazine included Arcata in its list of "ten most enlightened towns in America." Whatever one may think of anyone's qualifications to award such titles, there is something to be learned from reading what the editors had to say about the matter.

So take a look and, by all means, come visit and spend some money. Only don't make plans to move here, and don't come here looking for a job. Enlightenment is one of those qualities that dilutes easily in the presence of seekers. We would much prefer to make enlightenment one of our export products. So why not just take some with you on your way out?

Now here is an exact copy of the Utne Reader's Introduction and list of towns, except that some of the links have been removed for the sake of clarity. As you look down the list, click on "6. Arcata, CA" for the writers' interpretation of what makes us so deserving.